Title: Organisational (un)learning of public research labs in turbulent context

Authors: Mario Coccia; Emanuele Cadario

Addresses: National Research Council of Italy and Georgia Institute of Technology, CERIS-CNR, Collegio Carlo Alberto – Via Real Collegio, n. 30 – 10024 Moncalieri (Torino), Italy ' CERIS-CNR and Studio di Psicologia, Studi di Psicologia, Viale Roma, 52-28100 Novara (NO), Italy

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to analyse the underlying mechanisms of organisational learning within public research labs. Results of individual cognitive maps and congregate map, based on a critical case study, show inertia in the organisational learning with negative effects on strategic change and scientific performances of the public research institution. Some main causes of this organisational (un)learning are the effects of friction on the intra-organisational communication among researchers and scientific groups driven by hasty restructuring, high bureaucratisation of public bodies, low coordination and incentives of public servants. Some management implications of learning organisation are discussed.

Keywords: organisational learning; innovation; public research laboratories; internal communication; knowledge creation; learning organisations; cognitive mapping; congregate maps.

DOI: 10.1504/IJIL.2014.059756

International Journal of Innovation and Learning, 2014 Vol.15 No.2, pp.115 - 129

Published online: 21 Jun 2014 *

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